RHODE ISLAND

The "Ocean State" is best known for its world-class sailing, with Newport as the center of yachtsmen activity. While the shoreline is lined with a string of short barrier beaches bounded by headlands and inlet jetties, the best beaches in Rhode Island are found on Block Island offshore. The island is most popular during the summer months of July and August with the comings and goings of the ferries, loaded with people looking for seclusion.
Block Island, sometimes called the "Bermuda of the North," is characterized by high bluffs towering above quaint beaches and blue ocean waters, numerous freshwater ponds, and rolling hills adorned with wildflowers. Thanks to the Block Island Conservancy, about a quarter of the total land area will never be developed; a fair portion of Nantucket is also locked up in a similar fashion to prevent overdevelopment. Crescent Beach along Block Island's eastern shore is the best for beaching. There are lifeguards as well as restrooms and other facilities for visitors. I prefer to travel by bicycle because the small parking lot fills up quickly on a pleasant day.

Rhode Island Tourism and Promotion
1 W. Exchange Street
Providence, RI 02903
(401) 277-2601

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